Life's An Elevator
T.Rex - Marc Bolan Lyrics
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Alone at last
You cry with a sigh
Resurrecting all your past
Life's an elevator
It goes up and down
Life's an elevator
Swift is the kill
Shadows fill the empty walls
Wild is the word
That engulfs love sacred halls.
Life's an elevator
It goes up and down
Life's an elevator
Can't you dig the sound
Scenes from your past
Spread before the flaming dawn
Have faith in the hearts
Of the world they're rocking on
Life's an elevator
It goes up and down
Life's an elevator
Can't you dig the sound
In "Life's An Elevator," Marc Bolan uses vivid imagery to explore the concept of life as an ever-changing journey. The opening line, "Sat with a cat on your head, alone at last," immediately sets a surreal scene. This is followed by the listener being invited on a journey through the ups and downs of life; a metaphor for an elevator. Bolan also explores the power of memories and the past, with the line "You cry with a sigh, resurrecting all your past."
Bolan juxtaposes the concept of swift killing with the shadows that fill empty walls. He follows this with a word filled with passion, love, and spirituality - "Wild is the word that engulfs love sacred halls." It is clear that Bolan is inviting the listener to ponder the drama of life; swift and fleeting moments that are filled with love, passion, and spirituality.
The final verse suggests hope and faith, "Have faith in the hearts of the world they're rocking on," a reminder that we are not alone in our journey through life's elevator. Ultimately this psychedelic track explores the highs and lows of life and the power that memories, love, and faith have on our experience.
Line by Line Meaning
Sat with a cat on your head
You find yourself alone and perhaps a bit unusual as you sit with a cat resting on top of your head.
Alone at last
After a long day, you have finally found time to be on your own.
You cry with a sigh
As you reflect on your life, you let out a deep sigh and maybe even shed a tear.
Resurrecting all your past
You've been revisiting old memories and experiences, bringing them to the present.
Life's an elevator
The journey of life can be compared to the constant up and down motion of an elevator.
It goes up and down
At times you rise to success, but other times you fall and face adversity.
Can't you dig the sound
The ups and downs of life are an inevitable and exciting part of the journey, don't you agree?
Swift is the kill
Death or failure can come quickly and unexpectedly.
Shadows fill the empty walls
The darkness of the unknown can be overwhelming.
Wild is the word
Passionate and intense feelings fuel the power of love.
That engulfs love sacred halls.
The sanctity of true love is both powerful and enveloping.
Scenes from your past
Memories of your life, both good and bad, flash before your eyes.
Spread before the flaming dawn
As the sun rises, a new day dawns, bringing with it new opportunities for growth and change.
Have faith in the hearts
Believe in the goodness and kindheartedness of people around you.
Of the world they're rocking on
The world is constantly moving and evolving, even in the face of adversity.
Lyrics © Warner/Chappell Music, Inc., Spirit Music Group
Written by: MARC BOLAN
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@JaquieDanielsMusic
This is my favourite T-Rex song - great and sorrowful but uplifting words.
@philipknaggs2168
I bought an album (CD) on a whim. Best 20 dollars I have ever spent. Hadn't really heard much Marc Bolam, though he was prevalent during my childhood. To cut a long story short, . a masterpiece. This song has now stayed with me for over 20 years.
@marianferenc3755
Thank you Marc from the bottom of my heart....Thank You! This song is beyond beautiful. I first heard it 22 years ago, I was 14 years old and it has instantly become part of who I am.
@keith-leecastle6700
One of the best tunes he wrote...
@jmedia1102
THAT newspaper headline broke my heart - in 1977.
@Peacechilde
This song and cosmic dancer are two of my favs. Marc was a prolithic writer. Brings a tear to my eye. RIP dear Marc xxxl
@captmac5627
Yep, that's it. Well said Mark.
@susankirkland3852
I can't believe I've never heard this before. Love it
@1966maryjane
Brilliant, beautiful, magical, mystical, incomparable: Marc.
@sandrajh1
love this song no one writes songs like this anymore he was definately one of a kind